The Florida Aquarium

For Austin's birthday last week, the girls and I surprised him with a night in a Tampa hotel for the 4 of us, and then a visit to the Florida Aquarium. We were both very excited to pack up and get away with our girls, even if it was for just one night! It was the first time we were spending the night away from home as a family, and for just one night, we had a lot of stuff! And no luggage, so thank goodness for reusable grocery bags. :)


The girls loved exploring the hotel room and the swimming pool. They start swimming lessons in July, so I thought I'd get them used to going under the water. Madi wasn't too thrilled about it, but didn't get too upset either. Emily on the other hand, had her eyes wide open and a huge smile on her face even under water!


The next morning we went to the Florida Aquarium. We had a great time (besides Emily getting mad that she couldn't get in the tanks and swim!) and saw a lot of neat fish and other sea creatures. All week when we were telling Madi we were going to the aquarium to see fish, she kept making a gesture with her hands. It took us a day to notice it was happening each time, and then we realized she was wanting to catch the fish with her pole. She had a little pouty face when we told her you can't catch these fishies. I think Daddy's found himself a little fishing buddy. :)

On the balcony at the aquarium, with the cruise port
in the background. Maybe our next getaway?? :)

They look so tiny!

These redfish shared their tank with snook and sheepshead. Every time we pointed out
a sheepshead, Madi said, "Baaa."

Petting the stingrays!

These seahorse type creatures are alive! Amazing!

Emily's favorite part of the aquarium, the smoky mist with the
picture projected on it. This is what she did when we walked through it. :)

The weekend was over too quickly, but we were happy to be back home in our own beds too. It was so nice to "get away from it all" and I think it's something our family will have to do more often!